Mark Charles Engel

It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden and unexpected passing of Mark Charles Engel, 63, of Freeborn on Thursday, July 9, 2026. He was born on August 6, 1962. His family then moved to Freeborn in 1976, where he attended high school. It was there he met the love of his life, Kathy Aldrich, and they later married on November 19, 1983. They ultimately settled in Freeborn with their two children, Travis and Meridee. Mark started a precision machine shop in the garage of their home. Freeborn Machine operated for 22 years. They continued to reside by Freeborn until his untimely death.

Mark was known for his mechanical aptitude and willingness to give his time and energy to others. This was most noticeably marked by the countless repairs and remodels he performed for family and friends alike. There was nothing he couldn’t fix. “He helped everyone with everything.” His final act of generosity was to donate his organs to better the lives of others.

Mark was preceded in death by his mother, Elaine Engel; his grandparents: Ervin and Hazel Roemhildt, and George and Adelaide Engel.

He is survived by his wife, Kathy Engel of Hartland; children: Travis (Michele) Engel of Wallkill, NY, Meridee (Jesse) Strouf of Albert Lea; his beloved granddaughter, Rosalynne “Rosie” Strouf; father, Russel Engel of Freeborn; brothers: Russel Engel Jr. of Freeborn and Jeremy (Vicki) Engel of Owatonna; and other relatives and friends.

The family feels deep gratitude towards Mark’s cousin Michael Kemmits, who found him and performed CPR. Special thanks to the members of the Freeborn Fire Department Ambulance who rushed to help and made every effort to save his life.

A Celebration of Life is planned for early September.